Urban Griddle (Newark)

Recently I went to the Urban Griddle in Newark. Spoiler, I enjoyed it so much the first time, I’ve been back again. My good friend Devon and I met up at the Urban Griddle since it’s right off the highway and a good meeting spot between North and South Jersey.

When we arrived around 11 am, it wasn’t too busy. There were several tables and booths available. We were sat quickly!

Atmosphere: B
The outside is a typical restaurant building. It’s not the old, metallic retro style but has a more modern vibe (similar to the Harley Dawn in Hammonton). I enjoyed how open and well lit the restaurant is too. It reminds me more of a bistro vibe than diner vibe.

The restaurant sign could use an update, as it looks like it’s been through a few storms, and faded.

Service: A
Between the two of us, we had a lot of questions about menu options and choices, and our waitress was extremely friendly and helpful. She gave us plenty of menu advice and always refilled our beverages.

Coffee: A
The Urban Griddle has a full coffee bar as well as a standard bar with the ability to make alcoholic drinks as well.

Each cup of coffee was brewed perfectly. It was hot and fresh. Definitely some of the better coffee I’ve had recently.

Food: A
The Urban Griddle serves local and fresh ingredients. The menu has several unique diner options including “matcha pancakes” and avocado toast. It reminds me more of a bistro style menu. There is a large selection of vegetarian and vegan options too.

As many people know, I am a big grits fan. Since living in Alabama, I’ve been trying to find good northern grits. The second time I went, I ordered breakfast which came with a side of grits. So far in New Jersey, they have been the best I’ve had. The rest of the breakfast: toast, eggs, and bacon was equally as good. One of my favorite diner breakfasts to date (but that was mostly because of the grits!).

Cost: $
I was actually quite surprised with how inexpensive the food is. For my entire breakfast, the cost was $10.

Overall thoughts/Summary:
I enjoyed the Urban Griddle, and it’s definitely one of my more favorite diners in the area. I’ve already been back, so it clearly is one of my favorites!

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2 responses

I’m kinda picky about grits, but hey- I live in the South and I can be picky because grits are culture here. We have a few places with really good grits, including the place where my run group often goes for Sunday Brunch, Moe’s Crosstown Tavern. If you ever come to visit Charleston, I have a couple places in mind to recommend for you and that’s one. My favorite breakfast items to order out at restaurants are omelets and quichies- but most do come with a side of grits :).